Hydroponics

ABSTRACT

The disclosure relates to a planter.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application claims benefit of U.S. Provisional PatentApplication No. 62/694,760 filed Jul. 6, 2018, entitled “HYDROPONICS,”which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates generally to a planter and/or ahydroponics, and, but not by way of limitation, to devices, systems, andmethods related to a planter, a planter tower, and/or a hydroponicgreenhouse.

BACKGROUND

Conventional planters include a variety of sizes and shapes. In aconventional planter, the planter and/or one or more plants grown in theplanter may be prone to grow into the planter. In situations where theplant grows into the planter, damage can occur to the plant, harvestingof the plant is cumbersome and can damage the plant and/or the planter,or both. Additionally, or alternatively, in a conventional planter inwhich multiple plants can be grown, the planter and/or the plants may beprone to have two or more plants grow into each other and gettingattached to each other in the planter. When two or more plants grow intoeach other, harvesting of plants from the planter becomes cumbersome,can damage one or more of the plants (e.g., damage a root system, astem, etc.), damage to the planter can occur, or a combination thereof.Situations where plants grow into a planter and/or into each other canhappen in high density situations where multiple plants are grown inrelatively close proximity to each other, which can compromise growthand/or a yield (e.g., a harvest) of the plants.

Additionally, conventional planters may not be designed to efficientlyuse resources, such as water, which results in waste of resources andadded costs. For example, a conventional planter may not have adequatedrainage for liquids (e.g., water) which can results in a backupcondition in which water overflows from the planter creating waste aswell as a hazardous condition (e.g., a safety issue) when wateroverflows onto a floor. As another example, conventional planters maynot be designed to promote growth of plants. For example, a conventionalplanter may not account for, be adaptable to, and/or be configurable to(e.g., customizable) to multiple growing environments or specific plantrequirements.

SUMMARY

The present disclosure describes a planter, a plant tower, and agreenhouse that includes a planter having a longitudinal body definingat least two longitudinally extending liquid channels, the longitudinalboding including one or more mounting ports configured to enablecoupling of a conduit to the longitudinal body; and at least two plantholders defined in the body, the plant holders spaced on the outercircumference of the longitudinal body, each one of the at least twoplant holders in fluid flow communication with one of the at least twolongitudinally extending liquid channels. In some implementations, theplanter includes a mounting bracket coupled to the mounting port, themounting bracket including a post configured to engage the mounting portand one or more coupling elements configured to secure a conduit.Additionally, or alternatively, the planter may include the conduitcoupled to and longitudinally extending along the longitudinal body, theconduit having outlets spaced along its length, the conduit optionallyincluding one or more grooves configured to engage a portion of thelongitudinally body or a portion of the one or more coupling elements.

In some implementations, the longitudinal body further defining anoverflow conduit having an inlet associated with the first plant holderand an outlet posited below the inlet. Additionally, or alternatively,each plant holder includes an inlet opening and an outlet opening, whichis in flow communication with its corresponding liquid channel; and aridge is positioned adjacent to the inlet opening, the ridge extendingat least partially along a length of the inlet opening.

According to one aspect of the disclosure there is provided a planterwhich includes a longitudinal body defining at least two longitudinallyextending liquid channels; and at least two plant holders defined in thebody, the plant holders spaced on the outer circumference of thelongitudinal body, each one of the at least two plant holders in fluidflow communication with one of the at least two longitudinally extendingliquid channels.

The longitudinal body may include a single longitudinal conduit which isinternally divided to define the at least two longitudinally extendingliquid channels.

Each planter holder may define a holder mouth into which plants arereceivable. In particular the holder mouth may be shaped as anapplanated cylindrical ellipse, -circle or the like.

In one embodiment, the at least two plant holders may be located onopposed sides of the longitudinal body. In particular, the at least twoplant holders may be alternatively spaced on opposed sides over thelength of the longitudinal body.

Each of the plant holders may be in fluid flow communication with adifferent one of the longitudinally extending liquid channels.

The longitudinal body may include connecting formations at the ends ofthe longitudinal body.

The connecting formations may be shaped and dimensioned to fit intocorresponding connection formations of corresponding planters.

The operative lower end of the longitudinal body of the planter may havea connection formation for fitting into a corresponding connectionformation on an operative upper end of a longitudinal body of acorresponding planter installed below the former planter, and theoperative upper end of the longitudinal body of the planter may have aconnection formation for fitting into a corresponding connectionformation on an operative lower end of a longitudinal body of acorresponding planter installed above the former planter.

In one embodiment the connecting formations may be in the form of socketand spigot formations shaped and dimensioned to fit into respectivespigot and socket formations of corresponding planters.

The operative lower end of the longitudinal body of the planter may havea spigot formation, for fitting into a socket formation on an operativeupper end of a longitudinal body of a corresponding planter installedbelow the former planter and the operative upper end of the longitudinalbody of the planter may have a socket formation for receiving a spigotformation on an operative lower end of a longitudinal body of acorresponding planter installed above the former planter.

In an opposed example, the operative lower end of the longitudinal bodyof the planter may have socket formation, for receiving a spigotformation on an operative upper end of a longitudinal body of acorresponding planter installed below the former planter and theoperative upper end of the longitudinal body of the planter may have aspigot formation for fitting into a socket formation on an operativelower end of a longitudinal body of a corresponding planter installedabove the former planter.

Each plant holder may include an inlet opening and an outlet opening,which is in flow communication with its corresponding liquid channel. Inparticular the inlet opening may be located above the outlet opening topermit gravitational liquid flow into the plant holder through the inletopening and liquid flow from the plant holder through the outletopening.

The planter may include at least one longitudinally extending gaschannel, the gas channel having gas outlets spaced along its length. Thegas outlets may open to the outside of the planter body. The gas outletsmay be in the form of nozzles.

The connecting formations may be shaped and dimensioned to connectadjacent planter bodies together. The connecting formations may includeliquid channel connecting formations for connecting the liquid channelsof adjacent planter bodies together. The connecting formations mayinclude gas channel connecting formations for connecting the gaschannels of adjacent planter bodies together.

The planter may include an external attachment formation proximate theplant holder mouth for attaching plant supports. In particular, theattachment formation may be located below the plant holder mouth and mayreceive various types of plant supports, such as a creeper trellis andthe like. In this embodiment, the creeper trellis may be arranged tosupport a creeper plant, planted in the plant holder when it grows fromthe plant holder mouth.

The external attachment formation may further be supportive of lightingmeans, proximate the plant leaves for enhancing lighting onto the plantand subsequent plant growth. The lighting means may be in the form oflight emitting diodes (LED's) operable to emit a specific frequency oflight.

The planter may further include planting inserts shaped and dimensionedto fit into mouths of the at least two plant holders.

The planting inserts may be selected from any one or more of: a seedlingtray, a planting tray, a seeding clip and the like.

The seedling tray may be in the form of a cylindrical body, shaped tothe shape of the plant holder. The seedling tray may have a depth ofabout 43 mm. The seedling tray may include an inlet opening indexed withthe inlet opening of the plant holder. The seedling tray may include aplanar base cut in sections to provide drainage slits. The drainageslits may be less than 0.5 mm in width to permit liquid drainage withoutflushing seedlings from the seedling tray.

The planting tray may be in the form of a cylindrical body shaped to theshape of the plant holder. The planting tray may have a depth of about117 mm. The planting tray may include an inlet opening indexed with theinlet opening of the plant holder. The planting tray may include aplanar base cut in sections to provide drainage slits. A portion of theplanting tray sidewall may also include drainage slits. The portion ofthe sidewall may be slightly tapered towards the base. The drainageslits may be less than 0.5 mm in width to permit liquid drainage withoutflushing seedlings from the seedling tray.

The seeding clip may have a planar body for closing the planter mouthand provided with a downwardly projecting plate having a slot shaped toengage the stem of a plant.

According to another aspect of the disclosure, there is provided aplanter tower, which includes a plurality of planters as described,connected together to form an elongate upright planter with plantholders extending from the sides of the planter tower.

The planter tower may include between eight and sixteen plantersconnected together.

The planter tower may include at least one end member, shaped anddimensioned to connect onto an end the plurality of planters connectedtogether.

Specifically the planter tower may include two end members, a top endmember for connecting to the top end of the plurality of planters and abottom end member for connecting to the bottom end of the plurality ofplanters.

The at least one end member may be shaped to fit onto an end of alongitudinal body of a planter, socket and spigot fashion.

The at least one end member may include dual liquid conduits indexed tomatch the longitudinally extending liquid channels.

The at least one end member may include a gas conduit indexed to match agas channel extending through the planters.

The at least one end member may include a body with two sides, one ofwhich is provided with a socket formation and one of which is providedwith a spigot formation for fitting onto matched spigot and socketformations of the ends of the longitudinal body.

The top end member may be in the form of an intake closure attached at atop end of a plurality of inter-connected planters for directing liquidinto the two longitudinally extending liquid channels and for directinggas into the at least one longitudinally extending gas channel.

The bottom end member may be in the form of an outlet closure attachedat a bottom end of a plurality of inter-connected planters for directingliquid from the two longitudinally extending liquid channels and fordirecting gas from the at least one longitudinally extending gaschannel.

The at least one end member may include a catchment tray, for receivingany overflow liquid.

The liquid channels may extend over the length of the interconnectedplanters.

Each planter in the planter tower may include a gas channel, the gaschannel extends over the length of the inter-connected planters.

According to another aspect of the disclosure, there is provided ahydroponic greenhouse, which includes an array of planter towers, theplanter towers arranged in parallel spaced rows, the rows being providedwith a top liquid and gas supply line, connected via an intake closureto a top of each of the planter towers, the rows further being providedwith a bottom liquid and gas collection line, connected via an outletclosure to a bottom of each of the planter towers; a liquid circulationsystem, connected to the liquid supply lines and the liquid collectionlines; a gas circulation system, connected to the gas supply lines andthe gas collection lines.

In an embodiment where the gas outlets, described above, are directed tothe outsides of the planter bodies, the gas outlets may be directed atplants in an adjacent planter tower, advantageously to provide anadequate exchange of gas on the leaves of an adjacent plant.

The greenhouse may include a partially closed enclosure, which may beprovided with any one or more of air conditioners, high pressure fans,dampers, coiled coolers for recirculation of the liquid or gas from theliquid collection lines to the liquid supply lines or alternatively gassupply lines, geothermal heater/coolers, heat pumps, humiditycontrollers, infra-red controllers, and the like.

The greenhouse may be provided with a nutrient supply dosing pumpconnected to the liquid circulation system for dosing nutrients into theliquid circulation system.

The greenhouse may further include a filtering arrangement connected tothe liquid circulation system for filtering the liquid in the liquidcirculation system.

The present disclosure beneficially improves planting density withoutcompromising growth. The present disclosure also beneficially enablesefficiently use resources, such as water, which results in waste ofresources and added costs. To illustrate, the overflow channels mayenable water to not be wasted, one or more ridges may enable bettercoverable of water into a plant holder, and/or the mounting ports mayenable efficient placement of and delivery of gas, as illustrative,non-limiting examples.

As used herein, various terminology is for the purpose of describingparticular implementations only and is not intended to be limiting ofimplementations. For example, as used herein, an ordinal term (e.g.,“first,” “second,” “third,” etc.) used to modify an element, such as astructure, a component, an operation, etc., does not by itself indicateany priority or order of the element with respect to another element,but rather merely distinguishes the element from another element havinga same name (but for use of the ordinal term). The term “coupled” isdefined as connected, although not necessarily directly, and notnecessarily mechanically; two items that are “coupled” may be unitarywith each other. The terms “a” and “an” are defined as one or moreunless this disclosure explicitly requires otherwise. The term “or” isused to refer to a nonexclusive “or” unless otherwise indicated.

The term “about” as used herein can allow for a degree of variability ina value or range, for example, within 10%, within 5%, or within 1% of astated value or of a stated limit of a range, and includes the exactstated value or range. The term “substantially” is defined as largelybut not necessarily wholly what is specified (and includes what isspecified; e.g., substantially 90 degrees includes 90 degrees andsubstantially parallel includes parallel), as understood by a person ofordinary skill in the art. In any disclosed embodiment, the term“substantially” may be substituted with “within [a percentage] of” whatis specified, where the percentage includes 0.1, 1, or 5 percent; andthe term “approximately” may be substituted with “within 10 percent of”what is specified. The phrase “and/or” means and or. To illustrate, A,B, and/or C includes: A alone, B alone, C alone, a combination of A andB, a combination of A and C, a combination of B and C, or a combinationof A, B, and C. In other words, “and/or” operates as an inclusive or.The phrase “at least one of A and B” has the same meaning as “A, B, or Aand B.”

Throughout this document, values expressed in a range format should beinterpreted in a flexible manner to include not only the numericalvalues explicitly recited as the limits of the range, but also toinclude all the individual numerical values or sub-ranges encompassedwithin that range as if each numerical value and sub-range is explicitlyrecited. For example, a range of “about 0.1% to about 5%” or “about 0.1%to 5%” should be interpreted to include not just about 0.1% to about 5%,but also the individual values (e.g., 1%, 2%, 3%, and 4%) and thesub-ranges (e.g., 0.1% to 0.5%, 1.1% to 2.2%, 3.3% to 4.4%) within theindicated range. The statement “about X to Y” has the same meaning as“about X to about Y,” unless indicated otherwise. Likewise, thestatement “about X, Y, or about Z” has the same meaning as “about X,about Y, or about Z,” unless indicated otherwise.

The terms “comprise” (and any form of comprise, such as “comprises” and“comprising”), “have” (and any form of have, such as “has” and“having”), and “include” (and any form of include, such as “includes”and “including”). As a result, an apparatus that “comprises,” “has,” or“includes” one or more elements possesses those one or more elements,but is not limited to possessing only those one or more elements.Likewise, a method that “comprises,” “has,” or “includes” one or moresteps possesses those one or more steps, but is not limited topossessing only those one or more steps.

Any embodiment of any of the systems, methods, and article ofmanufacture can consist of or consist essentially of—rather thancomprise/have/include—any of the described steps, elements, and/orfeatures. Thus, in any of the claims, the term “consisting of” or“consisting essentially of” can be substituted for any of the open-endedlinking verbs recited above, in order to change the scope of a givenclaim from what it would otherwise be using the open-ended linking verb.Additionally, it will be understood that the term “wherein” may be usedinterchangeably with “where.”

Further, a device or system that is configured in a certain way isconfigured in at least that way, but it can also be configured in otherways than those specifically described. The feature or features of oneembodiment may be applied to other embodiments, even though notdescribed or illustrated, unless expressly prohibited by this disclosureor the nature of the embodiments. In the methods described herein, theacts can be carried out in any order, except when a temporal oroperational sequence is explicitly recited. Furthermore, certain actscan be carried out concurrently even if described as being carried outsequentially. In addition, it is to be understood that the phraseologyor terminology employed herein, and not otherwise defined, is for thepurpose of description only and not of limitation. Any use of sectionheadings is intended to aid reading of the document and is not to beinterpreted as limiting; information that is relevant to a sectionheading may occur within or outside of that particular section.

Some details associated with the embodiments are described above, andothers are described below. Other implementations, advantages, andfeatures of the present disclosure will become apparent after review ofthe entire application, including the following sections: BriefDescription of the Drawings, Detailed Description, and the Claims.

DRAWINGS

The following drawings illustrate by way of example and not limitation.For the sake of brevity and clarity, every feature of a given structureis not always labeled in every figure in which that structure appears.Identical reference numbers do not necessarily indicate an identicalstructure. Rather, the same reference number may be used to indicate asimilar feature or a feature with similar functionality, as maynon-identical reference numbers.

FIGS. 1A and 1B show three-dimensional views of a planter in accordancewith one aspect of the disclosure;

FIGS. 2A and 2B show two halves of the planter of FIGS. 1A and 1B;

FIG. 3 shows a side view of a portion of the planter of FIG. 1A;

FIG. 4 shows a planter tower comprising assembled planters of FIGS. 1Aand 1B;

FIG. 5 shows a side view of a portion of the planter tower of FIG. 4 ;

FIGS. 6A and 6B show three-dimensional views of an end member of aplanter arrangement;

FIG. 7 shows a seedling tray of a planter;

FIG. 8 shows a planting tray of a planter;

FIG. 9 shows a creeper trellis of a planter;

FIG. 10 shows a seeding clip of a planter arrangement;

FIG. 11 shows a hydroponic greenhouse in accordance with a furtheraspect of the disclosure;

FIG. 12 shows a side view of a portion of a planter apparatus;

FIGS. 13A, 13B, 13C, 13D, and 13E show views associated with an exampleof a planter;

FIGS. 14A, 14B, and 14C show three-dimensional views of an example of aportion of a planter;

FIGS. 15A, 15B, and 15C show three-dimensional views of an example of aportion of a planter;

FIGS. 16A, 16B, and 16C show views of an end member of a planterarrangement;

FIG. 16D shows a three-dimensional view of a connector;

FIG. 16E shows a view of the tie of FIG. 16D coupled to the end memberof FIG. 16A;

FIG. 17A shows a top view of an end member of a planter arrangement;

FIG. 17B shows a three-dimensional view of the end member of FIG. 17A;

FIG. 18A shows a front view of a conduit of a planter arrangement;

FIG. 18B shows a three-dimensional view of a portion of the conduit ofFIG. 18A;

FIG. 19A shows a front view of a coupler for the conduit of FIG. 18A;

FIG. 19B shows a three-dimensional view of the coupler of FIG. 19A;

FIGS. 20A, 20B, 20C, and 20D show views of an example of a plantingtray;

FIG. 21 illustrates an example of coupling assembled planters of FIG.13A;

FIG. 22 illustrates an example of coupling the end member of FIG. 16A toan assembled planter of FIG. 13A;

FIG. 23 illustrates an example of coupling the end member of FIG. 17A toan assembled planter of FIG. 13A;

FIG. 24 illustrates an example of coupling the planting tray of FIG. 20Ato an assembled planter of FIG. 13A;

FIGS. 25A and 25B illustrate an example of coupling the conduit of FIG.18A to assembled planters of FIG. 13A;

FIGS. 26A and 26B illustrate perspective views of an example of aplanter;

FIGS. 27A and 27B illustrate two halves of the planter of FIGS. 26A and26B;

FIG. 28A shows a side view of a portion of the planter of FIG. 26A;

FIG. 28B shows zoomed in view of a portion of the side view of theplanter shown in FIG. 28A;

FIGS. 29A and 29B show views of an example of an end member of aplanter;

FIGS. 30A and 30B show views of another example of an end member of aplanter;

FIGS. 31A and 31B show views of an example of a planting tray of aplanter;

FIG. 32 illustrates another example of a planting tray of a planter;

FIG. 33 illustrates an example of a mounting bracket of a planter;

FIGS. 34A, 34B, 34C, and 34D illustrate another example of a plantingtray of a planter;

FIGS. 34E, 34F, 34G, and 34H illustrate an example of the planting trayof FIG. 34A with a seed holder; and

FIG. 35 illustrates an example of a planter.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In FIGS. 1A and 1B, a planter 10, in accordance with at least oneaspect, is shown. The planter 10 has a longitudinal body 12, in twohalves 12.1 and 12.2, as shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B. The planter 10includes a first end 31 and a second end 33 that is opposite the firstend 31.

The longitudinal body 12 defines two longitudinally extending liquidchannels 14.1 and 14.2 as shown in FIGS. 1A, 1B, 2A, 2B, and 3 . Forexample, a first liquid channel 14.1 extends between the first end 31 tothe second end 33 and a second liquid channel 14.2 extends between thefirst end 31 and the second end 33. The first liquid channel 14.1 isdistinct from the second liquid channel 14.2. To illustrate, thelongitudinal body 12 may include a single longitudinal conduit which isinternally divided (by a divider 13) into the at least twolongitudinally extending liquid channels 14.1 and 14.2.

The planter 10 includes two plant holders 16, 18 defined on the outercircumference of the longitudinal body. As can be seen in at least FIGS.2A and 2B, the two plant holders 16, 18 have openings 16.1, 18.1defining liquid inlets to the plant holders and openings 16.2, 18.2defining liquid outlets from the plant holders. As shown in FIGS. 2A and2B, the opening 18.2 (e.g., the liquid outlet) of the plant holder 18may include or correspond to an opening associated with the second end33. Alternatively, the opening 18.2 (e.g., the liquid outlet) of theplant holder 18 may be positioned as shown with reference to at leastFIG. 5 .

As can be seen in at least FIGS. 1A, 1B, 2A, and 2B, the plant holders16, 18 have holder mouths in the form of applanated cylindricalellipses.

As can be seen in at least FIGS. 1A, 1B, 2A, and 2B, the two plantholders 16, 18 are alternatively spaced on opposed sides of thelongitudinal body. For example, plant holder 16 may correspond to afirst plant holder and plant holder 18 may correspond to a second plantholder.

In FIGS. 1A, 1B, 2A, and 2B, it can be seen that the longitudinal bodyhas connecting formations 20, 22 in the form of socket and spigotformations at the ends of the longitudinal body 12. As can be seen in atleast FIGS. 4 and 5 , the connecting formations are shaped anddimensioned to fit into respective spigot and socket formations ofcorresponding planters. For example, the operative lower end of thelongitudinal body 12 of the planter 10 has a spigot formation 22, forfitting into a socket formation 20 on an operative upper end of alongitudinal body 12 of a corresponding planter 10 installed below theformer planter. To illustrate, as shown in FIG. 5 , formations 20, 22are coupled together at an interface 68.

As can be seen in at least FIGS. 2A, 2B, and 5 , each plant holder 16,18 has an inlet opening 16.1, 18.1 and an outlet opening 16.2, 18.2,respectively, which forms part of its corresponding liquid channel 14.2and 14.1, respectively. As can be seen, the inlet openings 16.1, 18.1are located above the outlet openings 16.2, 18.2 to permit liquid toflow into the plant holders 16, 18 through the inlet openings 16.1, 18.1and from the plant holder through the outlet opening 16.2, 18.2.Referring to FIG. 3 , the first fluid channel 14.1 and second fluidchannel 14.2 may corresponds to and/or define fluid paths 15.1, 15.2,respectively, between first end 31 and second end 33. Fluid path 15.1may include at least a first fluid path 35 between first end 31 andopening 18.1. Fluid path 15.2 may include at least a second fluid path36 between first end 31 and opening 16.1 and a third fluid path 37between opening 16.2 and second end 33.

As can be seen in FIGS. 2A and 2B, each plant holder 18 comprises twohalves, which defines a complete plant holder, when connected to eachother.

The planter 10 further includes a longitudinally extending gas channel24. The gas channel 24 has outlets spaced along its length. Inparticular, the gas channel 24 has outlets 26 that open to the outsideof the planter body 12 (see FIG. 4 ). The gas outlets 26 are in the formof nozzles, when the planters are assembled in an array as shown in FIG.11 , the nozzles are directed at plants in adjacent planter towers, toensure adequate gas exchange on the leaves of those plants. The gaschannel may be integrated into the longitudinal body, as shown in atleast FIGS. 1A and 1B, or may be coupled to the longitudinal body, asdescribed with reference to at least FIGS. 25A and 25B. Additionally, oralternatively, the longitudinal body may include one or more mountingports (e.g, 27 represented as with dashed line) configured to enable aconduit (e.g., a gas conduit, a liquid conduit, and/or other conduit) tobe coupled to planter 10, as descried at least with reference to FIG.26B.

As can be seen in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the planter has an externalattachment formation 28 proximate the plant holder mouth for attachingplant supports. One example of such a plant support is a plant trellis30, shown in FIG. 9 , which has a corresponding attachment formation 32,which can fit into the attachment formation 28, spigot and socketfashion. The creeper trellis 30 is arranged to support a creeper plant(not shown), planted in the plant holder when it grows from the plantholder mouth 16, 18.

The planter 10 also has external attachment formations in the form ofapertures 34, for holding wire, line or cables that can provideadditional structural strength to the planter assembly 50 (e.g., theplanter 10) or to provide a structure onto which creepers can grow.

Each planter 10 also includes planting inserts (as shown in FIGS. 7, 810, 20A-20D, 31A, 31B, 33, and 34A-G) shaped and dimensioned to fit ontomouths of the plant holders 16, 18. The planting inserts are selectedfrom: a seedling tray, a planting tray and a seeding clip. The plantinginserts may be selected based on its suitability for a specific plant.

In FIG. 7 a seedling tray 60 is shown, which is shaped and dimensionedto fit into a mouth of a plant holder 16, 18. The seedling tray 60 has adepth of about 43 millimeters (mm). The seedling tray 60 has an inletopening 60.1 indexed with the inlet openings 16.1, 18.1 of the plantholder. The seedling tray 60 has a planar base cut in sections toprovide drainage slits 60.2. The drainage slits 60.2 are less than 0.5mm in width to permit liquid drainage without flushing seedlings fromthe seedling tray 60.

In FIG. 8 a planting tray 70 is shown, which is shaped and dimensionedto fit into a mouth of a plant holder 16, 18. The planting tray 70 has adepth of about 117 mm and is in the form of a cylindrical body shaped tothe shape of the plant holder 16, 18. The planting tray 70 includes aninlet opening 70.1 indexed with the inlet openings of the plant holder16.1, 18.1. The planting tray 70 has a planar base cut in sections toprovide drainage slits. A portion of the planting tray sidewall also hasdrainage slits 70.2. The portion of the sidewall is slightly taperedtowards the base. The drainage slits is less than 0.5 mm in width topermit liquid drainage without flushing seedlings from the seedling tray70. Additional features and/or aspects that may be incorporated intotray 70 are described further herein at least with reference to FIGS.31A and 31B.

In FIG. 10 a seeding clip 80 is shown. The seeding clip 80 is shaped tofit onto the mouth of a plant holder 16, 18. The seeding clip 80 has aplanar body for closing the planter mouth and is provided with adownwardly projecting plate 80.2 and a slot 80.3 shaped to engage thestem of a plant. The seeding clip 80 further includes finger projections80.1, which can be compressed towards each other for removing theseeding clip 8 from the mouth of the plant holder 16, 18.

Although planter 10 has been described as having one or more features,it is understood that planter 10 is not limited to such features andthat other aspects of the disclosure may be incorporated in planter 10and/or substitute other features of planter 10. For example, planter 10may include a longitudinally extending channel 124 (as described withreference to at least FIG. 13A), one or more mounting ports 324 (asdescribed at least with reference to FIG. 26B), or a combination there.Additionally, or alternatively, planter 10 may include one or moreoverflow channels 333 (e.g., bypass channels), as described at leastwith reference to FIG. 28A.

FIG. 4 shows a planter tower 50 (e.g., a planter assembly) in accordancewith a further aspect of the disclosure. In this example, the plantertower 50 includes two planters 10.1, 10.2 as described, connectedtogether to form an elongate upright planter, with plant holders 16, 18extending from the sides of the planter tower 50 (It is to beappreciated that in some implementations, a planter tower would includeabout eight planters connected together as shown in FIG. 11 ). Althoughshown as including two planters 10.1, 10.2, in other implementations,tower 50 having four plant holders may constitute a single plant holder,such as a single plant holder having a first longitudinal half coupledto a second longitudinal half.

The planter tower 50 is provided with two end members 52, as shown inFIGS. 6A and 6B, (not mounted in FIGS. 6A and 6B) shaped to fit socketand spigot fashion onto a top or bottom end of a longitudinal body 12 ofa planter 10. Additional features and/or aspects that may beincorporated into end member 52 are described further herein at leastwith reference to FIGS. 16A-16C, 16E, 17A, 17B, 29A, 29B, 30A, and 30B.

The end members 52 have dual liquid conduits 54, 56 indexed to match thelongitudinally extending liquid channels 14.2, 14.1. The end members 52also each have a gas conduit 58 indexed to match the gas channel 24extending through the planters.

The end members 52 each has a body with two sides, an upper side whichis provided with a socket formation 52.1 and a bottom side which isprovided with a spigot formation 52.2 for fitting onto matched spigot—22and socket—20 formations on the ends of the longitudinal body 12 of theplanters 10. The upper and bottom sides further includes a recessedcradle formation for receiving a top liquid and gas supply line (asshown in FIG. 11 ) and a bottom liquid and gas collection line acrossthe end members. In this example the upper cradle formation isdimensioned to fit a 50 mm to 65 mm pipe and the bottom cradle formationis dimensioned to fit a 110 mm to 160 mm pipe.

In this example, the planter tower 50 includes a top end member 52 forconnecting to the top end of the plurality of planters 10.1, 10.2 and abottom end member 52 for connecting to the bottom end of the pluralityof planters 10.1, 10.2. The top end member 52 and bottom end member 52are identical in shape and dimension, but function as an intake closure52 and outlet closure 52, respectively.

The intake closure 52 attached at a top end of a plurality ofinterconnected planters, being operable to direct liquid into the twolongitudinally extending liquid channels 14.1, 14.2 and for directinggas into the longitudinally extending gas channel 24.

The outlet closure 52 attached at a bottom end of a plurality ofinterconnected planters, being operable to direct liquid out from thetwo longitudinally extending liquid channels 14.1, 14.2.

The liquid channels 14.1, 14.2 and gas channel 24 extend over the lengthof the inter-connected planters 10. For example, referring to FIG. 5 , aportion of planter assembly 50 is shown. Planter assembly 50 includes afirst end 41 and a second end 42 that is opposite first end 41. As shownin FIG. 5 , liquid channels 14.1, 14.2 extend over the length of theplanter assembly 50 between the first end 41 and the second end 42. Thefirst liquid channel 14.1 is distinct from the second liquid channel14.2. To illustrate, a longitudinal body of the planter assembly 50 maydefine a single longitudinal conduit which is internally divided (by adivider 13) to at least in part define the at least two longitudinallyextending liquid channels 14.1 and 14.2.

The planter assembly 50 includes at least two plant holders (e.g., 16,18) defined on the outer circumference of the longitudinal body. Forexample, the planter assembly may include a first plant holder, a secondplant holder, a third plant holder, and a fourth plant holder. As shown,plant holder 18 includes a first portion and a second portion. Eachplanter holder is associated a liquid channel. To illustrate, the firstand third plant holders correspond to liquid channel 14.2 and the secondand fourth plant holders correspond to liquid channel 14.1.

As shown in FIG. 5 , the first fluid channel 14.1 and second fluidchannel 14.2 may corresponds to and/or define fluid paths 43.1, 43.2,respectively between first end 41 and second end 42. Fluid path 43.1 mayinclude at least a first fluid path 45 between first end 41 and opening18.1 (e.g., inlet of second plant holder), and a second fluid path 46between opening 18.2 (e.g., outlet of second plant holder) and opening18.1 (e.g., inlet of fourth plant holder). Fluid path 43.2 may includeat least a third fluid path 47 between first end 41 and opening 16.1(e.g., inlet of first plant holder), a fourth fluid path 48 betweenopening 16.2 (e.g., outlet of first plant holder) and opening 16.1(e.g., inlet of third plant holder), and a fifth fluid path 49 betweenopening 16.2 (e.g., outlet of third plant holder) and second end 42.

The bottom side of the end members 52 also includes a catchment tray 57on the outer perimeter of the end members. When the end member 52 isused as a bottom end member, the catchment tray 57 is operable toreceive overflow liquid from the planter tower 50.

As can be seen in FIG. 4 , the plant holders 16, 18 which arealternatively spaced on opposed sides over the length of the of theplanter tower 50, provide for maximum space and access to sunlight forthe plants. Furthermore, with the roots growing downwardly, possiblyinto the liquid channels 14.1, 14.2, maximum provision is made for rootgrowth, without interference from plants directly below or above anyplanter.

FIG. 11 shows a hydroponic greenhouse 100 in accordance with yet afurther aspect of the disclosure. The hydroponic greenhouse 100 includesan array of planter towers as described. In this figure only one row ofplanter towers 50.1 to 50.10 are shown (for illustrative purposes),however in practice the hydroponic greenhouse includes a plurality ofparallel spaced planter tower rows. Greenhouse 100 may also include oneor more systems 101 (and/or one or more sub-systems), as describedfurther herein. For example, the one or more systems 101 may include orcorrespond to a liquid circulation system, a gas circulation system, anair conditioner, a high pressure fan, a damper, a coiled cooler forrecirculation of liquid or gas (e.g., from the liquid collection linesto the liquid supply lines and/or alternatively gas supply lines), ageothermal heater/cooler, a heat pump, a humidity controller, aninfra-red controller, a nutrient supply system, or a combinationthereof. The one or more systems 101 may be coupled to or operable withone or more planters (e.g., one or more plant towers and/or one or morerows of plant towers).

The rows being provided with a top liquid and gas supply line 102,connected via an intake closure 52 to a top of each of the plantertowers 50 (e.g., 50.1 to 50.10). The rows are further provided with abottom liquid and gas collection line 103, connected via an outletclosure 52 to a bottom of each of the planter towers 50 (e.g., 50.1 to50.10).

The hydroponic greenhouse 100 includes a liquid circulation system (notshown), connected to the liquid supply lines 102 and the liquidcollection lines 103 and a gas circulation system (not shown), connectedto the gas supply lines 102 and the gas collection lines 103.

In this example the top liquid and gas supply line 102 includes a 50 mmto 65 mm diameter plastic outer pipe, onto which the top end members 52of each planter tower 50 in the row is attached. The 50 mm to 65 mmdiameter plastic outer pipe includes interspaced apertures through whichliquid and gas is fed into the planter towers 50. The top end members(inlet closures) 52 are secured to the pipe via connectors. In thisexample the connectors are in the form of cable ties (not shown), whichare threaded through connector apertures 59 on the end members 52. Anexample of a tie is described further herein with reference to at leastFIG. 16D.

In this example the bottom liquid and gas collection line 103 includes a110 mm to 160 mm diameter plastic outer pipe, onto which the bottom endmembers (outlet closures) 52 of each planter tower 50 (e.g., 50.1 to50.10) in the row is attached. The 110 mm to 160 mm diameter plasticouter pipe includes interspaced apertures through which liquid and gasis received from the planter towers 50 (e.g., 50.1 to 50.10). The bottomend members 52 are secured to the pipe via connectors. In this examplethe connectors are in the form of cable ties (not shown), which arethreaded through connector apertures 59 on the end members 52. Anexample of a tie is described further herein with reference to at leastFIG. 16D.

The hydroponic greenhouse includes a partially closed enclosure (notshown), which is provided with any one or more of: air conditioners,high pressure fans, dampers, coiled coolers for recirculation of theliquid or gas from the liquid collection lines to the liquid supplylines or alternatively gas supply lines, geothermal heater/coolers, heatpumps, humidity controllers and infra-red controllers.

The hydroponic greenhouse is also provided with a nutrient supply dosingpump (not shown) connected to the liquid circulation system for dosingnutrients into the liquid circulation system.

The hydroponic greenhouse is further provided with a filteringarrangement (not shown) connected to the liquid circulation system forfiltering the liquid in the liquid circulation system.

Referring to FIG. 12 , a portion of planter assembly 50 is shown. Asshown in FIG. 12 , the portion of the planter assembly 50 may include aportion of a plant tower, such as a portion of the plant tower 50.1. Theplanter assembly of FIG. 12 includes a first end 90 and a second end 92that is opposite first end 90. As shown in FIG. 12 , liquid channels14.1, 14.2 extend over the length of the planter assembly 50 between thefirst end 90 and the second end 92. The first liquid channel 14.1 isdistinct from the second liquid channel 14.2. To illustrate, alongitudinal body of the planter assembly 50 of FIG. 12 may define asingle longitudinal conduit which is internally divided (by a divider13) to at least in part define the at least two longitudinally extendingliquid channels 14.1 and 14.2.

The planter assembly 50 of FIG. 12 includes at least two plant holders(e.g., 16, 18) defined on the outer circumference of the longitudinalbody. For example, the planter assembly may include a first plantholder, a second plant holder, a third plant holder, a fourth plantholder, a fifth plant holder, and a sixth plant holder. Each plantholder is associated a liquid channel. To illustrate, the first, third,and fifth plant holders correspond to liquid channel 14.2 and thesecond, fourth, and sixth plant holders correspond to liquid channel14.1.

The liquid channels 14.1, 14.2 extend over the length of the planterassembly 50 of FIG. 12 . As shown in FIG. 12 , the first fluid channel14.1 and second fluid channel 14.2 may corresponds to and/or definefluid paths 94.1, 94.2, respectively between first end 90 and second end92.

In a particular implementation, a planter 50 (e.g., planter 10) includesa longitudinal body defining at least two longitudinally extendingliquid channels 14.1, 14.2. The planter 50 also includes at least twoplant holders (e.g., 16, 18) defined in the body. The plant holders(e.g., 16, 18) are spaced on the outer circumference of the longitudinalbody. Each one of the at least two plant holders (e.g., 16, 18) is influid flow communication with one of the at least two longitudinallyextending liquid channels 14.1, 14.2. In some implementations, thelongitudinal body may include a single longitudinal conduit which isinternally divided (e.g., by at least the divider 13) to define the atleast two longitudinally extending liquid channels 14.1, 14.2.

Referring to FIGS. 13A-13E, an example of a planter 110 is shown.Planter 110 may include or correspond to a planter, a planter assembly,or a planter tower. For example, planter 110 may include or correspondto planter 10 and/or planter assembly 50 (e.g., planter tower50.1-50.10). To illustrate, planter 110 may incorporate one or morefeatures as described with reference to planter 10 and/or planterassembly 50.

The planter 110 has a longitudinal body 112. The planter 110 includes afirst end 131 and a second end 132 that is opposite the first end 131.As an illustrative, non-limiting example, the longitudinal body 112 mayinclude multiple portions (e.g., two halves) 112.1 and 112.2 that arecoupled together. Views of a first portion 112.1 (e.g., a first half)are shown with reference to FIGS. 14A-14C. Views of a second portion112.2 (e.g., a second half) are shown with reference to FIGS. 15A-15C.

The longitudinal body 112 defines two longitudinally extending liquidchannels 114.1 and 114.2. For example, a first liquid channel 114.1extends between the first end 131 and the second end 132 and a secondliquid channel 114.2 extends between the first end 131 and the secondend 132. For example, the first fluid channel 114.1 and second fluidchannel 114.2 may corresponds to and/or define fluid paths 115.1, 115.2,respectively, between the first end 131 and the second end 132. Thefirst liquid channel 114.1 is distinct from the second liquid channel114.2. To illustrate, the longitudinal body 112 may include a singlelongitudinal conduit which is internally divided (by a divider 113) intothe at least two longitudinally extending liquid channels 114.1 and114.2.

The planter 110 includes at least two plant holders 116, 118 defined onthe outer circumference of the longitudinal body. The at least two plantholders 116, 118 are alternatively spaced on opposed sides of thelongitudinal body. The at least two plant holders 116, 118 may haveholder mouths in the form of applanated cylindrical ellipses. Each ofthe two plant holders 16, 18 has corresponding openings 16.1, 18.1defining liquid inlets to the plant holder and corresponding openings16.2, 18.2 defining liquid outlets from the plant holders. To furtherillustrate, each plant holder 116, 118 has an inlet opening 116.1, 118.1and an outlet opening 116.2, 118.2, respectively, which forms part ofits corresponding liquid channel 114.2 and 114.1, respectively. As canbe seen, the inlet openings 116.1, 118.1 are located above the outletopenings 116.2, 118.2 to permit liquid to flow into the plant holders116, 118 through the inlet openings 116.1, 118.1 and from the plantholder through the outlet opening 116.2, 118.2. As identified in FIG.13B, a ridge 117 am be positioned at the inlet openings 116.1. The ridge117 may disrupt a flow of liquid such that the flow of liquid is slowedand/or is directed into a plant holder (e.g., 116, 118). In someimplementations, ridge 117 may extend an entire width of the inletopening 116.1, 118.1. In other implementations, ridge 117 may not extendan entire width of the inlet opening 116.1, 118.1 and/or may includemultiple ridges. Additionally, or alternatively, ridge 117 may have oneor more planar surfaces, one or more curved or curvilinear surfaces,and/or have one or more channels or grooves.

Longitudinal body 112 may also include one or more overflow channels119. The overflow channel 119 may be configured to bypass a portion of acorresponding liquid channel 114.2 and 114.1. An overflow channel mayhave an overflow inlet positioned in a plant holder 116, 118, such asnear a rim or mouth of the plant holder 116, 118. In otherimplementations, the overflow inlet may be offset from the rim or mouthof the plant holder 116, 118, such that the overflow inlet is closer toa middle of the plant holder 116, 118 or is positioned between a middleof the plant holder 116, 118 and a rim of the plant holder 116, 118. Theoverflow channel 119 may have an overflow outlet that is open to acorresponding liquid channel 114.1, 114.2.

As shown in FIGS. 13A-13E, the planter includes a first plant holder, asecond plant holder, a third plant holder, a fourth plant holder, afifth plant holder, and a sixth plant holder. It is noted that theopening (e.g., the liquid outlet) of the sixth plant holder may includeor correspond to an opening associated with the second end 132.

The longitudinal body 112 has connecting formations 120, 122 in the formof socket and spigot formations at the ends of the longitudinal body112. The connecting formations 120, 122 are shaped and dimensioned tofit into respective spigot and socket formations of correspondingplanters and/or corresponding end members. For example, the operativelower end of the longitudinal body 112 of the planter 110 has a spigotformation 122, for fitting into a socket formation 120 on an operativeupper end of a longitudinal body 112 of a corresponding planter 110installed below the former planter. An example of spigot formation 122positioned to be coupled to a corresponding socket formation 120 isdescribed at least with reference to FIG. 21 .

The planter 110 further includes a longitudinally extending channel 124associated with a gas channel. The gas channel, as described furtherherein with reference to at least FIGS. 18A, 18B, 25A, and 25B, hasoutlets spaced along its length. In particular, the gas channel hasoutlets that open to the outside of the planter body 112 (see at leastFIGS. 25A and 25B). The gas outlets may be in the form of openings ornozzles that are directed at plants in adjacent planter towers topromote gas exchange on the leaves of those plants. In someimplementations, a cover may be coupled to/over channel 124 to form thegas channel. In other implementations, a conduit (e.g., a tube) may becoupled to channel 124, where the conduit includes the gas channel.Additionally, or alternatively, the channel 124 may include one or morecoupling structures (e.g., grooves) configured to couple the coverand/or the conduit to or within the channel 124.

Planter 110 has an external attachment formation 128 proximate the plantholder mouth for attaching plant supports. One example of such a plantsupport is the plant trellis 30, shown in FIG. 9 , which has acorresponding attachment formation 32, which can fit into the attachmentformation 128, spigot and socket fashion. The creeper trellis 30 isarranged to support a creeper plant (not shown), planted in the plantholder when it grows from the plant holder mouth 116, 118.

The planter 110 also has external attachment formations in the form ofapertures 134, for holding wire, line or cables that can provideadditional structural strength to the planter 110 (or an assembly ofmultiple planters 110) or to provide a structure onto which creepers cangrow.

A mouth of a plant holder (e.g., 116, 118) may be configured to receiveand/or support a planting inserts, such as a seedling tray, a plantingtray, a seeding clip, or other insert. The planting inserts may beselected based on its suitability for a specific plant. Illustrative,non-limiting examples of planting inserts for use with planter 110include the seedling tray 60, the planting tray 70, the seeding clip 80,a tray 200 of FIGS. 20A-20D, or a tray 430 of FIGS. 34A-34G. Additionalillustrative examples may include examples as described further hereinat least with reference to FIGS. 31A, 31B, 32 .

In a particular implementation, a planter 110 includes a longitudinalbody 112 defining at least two longitudinally extending liquid channels114.1, 114.2. The planter 110 also includes at least two plant holders(e.g., 116, 118) defined in the body 112. The plant holders (e.g., 116,118) are spaced on the outer circumference of the longitudinal body 112.Each one of the at least two plant holders (e.g., 116, 118) is in fluidflow communication with one of the at least two longitudinally extendingliquid channels 114.1, 114.2. In some implementations, the longitudinalbody 112 may include a single longitudinal conduit which is internallydivided (e.g., by at least the divider 113) to define the at least twolongitudinally extending liquid channels 114.1, 114.2.

In some implementations, the at least two plant holders (e.g., 116, 118)may be located on opposed sides of the longitudinal body 112. Forexample, the at least two plant holders (e.g., 116, 118) may bealternatively spaced on opposed sides over the length of thelongitudinal body 112. In some such implementations, each of the plantholders (e.g., 116, 118) may be in fluid flow communication with adifferent one of the longitudinally extending liquid channels 114.1,114.2. Additionally, or alternatively, the planter 110 may include atleast one longitudinally extending channel 124 associated with a gaschannel having gas outlets spaced along its length. The gas outlets mayopen to the outside of the planter body. The gas outlets may be in theform of nozzles.

Referring to FIGS. 16A-16C, an example of an end member 152 (e.g., a topend member) is shown. FIG. 16A includes a top perspective view of theend member 152, FIG. 16B includes a bottom perspective view of the endmember 152, and FIG. 16C includes a bottom view of the end member 152.The end member 152 may be referred to as a canopy of a planter (e.g.,10, 110) or a planter assembly (e.g., 50). The end member 152 isconfigured to fit socket and spigot fashion onto a top of a longitudinalbody (e.g., 12, 112) of a planter.

The end member 152 has dual liquid conduits 154, 156 indexed to matchlongitudinally extending liquid channels, such as liquid channels 14.1,14.2 or liquid channels 114.1, 114.2. The end members 152 also each havea gas conduit 158 indexed to match a gas channel. In someimplementations, the gas conduit 158 may be configured as a cavity thatoperates as an end cap for a gas channel.

The end member 152 includes connector apertures 159 through which aconnector, such as a tie, may be inserted. An example of a connector isdescribed at least with reference to FIG. 16D and an example of aconnector coupled to the end member 152 is descried at least withreference to FIG. 16E.

The end member 152 has a body with two sides, an upper side which isprovided with a recessed cradle formation 157 for receiving a liquidsupply line 170 (e.g., a pipe) and a bottom side which is provided witha spigot formation 153 for fitting onto matched socket formations of afirst end of a longitudinal body (e.g., 12, 112) of a planter. Liquidsupply line 170 may include or correspond to liquid supply line 102. Anexample of the end member 152 coupled to a liquid supply line 170 isshown with reference to FIG. 16E. An example of the end member 152positioned to be coupled to a planter (e.g., 110) is described at leastwith reference to FIG. 22 .

Referring to FIG. 16D, an example of the connector 162 is shown. Theconnector 162 includes a first end 163 and a second end 164 that isopposite the first end 163. The connector 162 includes a plurality ofridges, such as representative ridges 165, on a first side of theconnector 162. As an illustrative, non-limiting example, each ridge 165is wedge shaped (e.g., an inclined plane), as shown. In someimplementations, a second side of the connector 162 that is opposite thefirst side may not have ridges or may have ridges (as described withreference to the first side).

The plurality of ridges may include a first set of ridges 166 and asecond set of ridges 168. The ridges 165 of the first set of ridges 166may a first orientation and the ridges of the second set of ridges 168may have a second orientation. In a particular implementation, the firstorientation is opposite the second orientation. To illustrate, eachridge of the first set of ridges 166 may be positioned such that aninclined surface of the ridge slopes away from the first end 163 to apeak of the ridge, and each ridge of the second set of ridges 168 may bepositioned such that an inclined surface of the ridge slopes away fromthe second end 164 to a peak of the ridge.

Referring to FIG. 16E, an example of the end member 152 coupled to theliquid supply line 170 via the connector 162 is shown. As shown, theliquid supply line 170 is positioned in the recessed cradle formation157 of the end member 152. Additionally, one end of the connector 162 isinserted through one of the connector apertures 159 and the other end ofthe connector 162 is inserted through the other of the connectorapertures 159. As shown, a ridge 165 of the connector 162 secures theconnector 162 with respect to the end member 152.

Referring to FIGS. 17A-17B, an example of an end member 172 (e.g., abottom end member) is shown. FIG. 17A includes a bottom view of the endmember 172 and FIG. 17B includes a top perspective view of the endmember 172. The end member 172 may be referred to as a base of a planter(e.g., 10, 110) or a planter assembly (e.g., 50). The end member 172 isconfigured to fit socket and spigot fashion onto a top of a longitudinalbody (e.g., 12, 112) of a planter.

The end member 172 has a liquid conduit 175 configured to receivelongitudinally extending liquid channels, such as liquid channels 14.1,14.2 or liquid channels 114.1, 114.2. The end member 152 has a body withtwo sides, an upper side which is provided with a socket formation 176for fitting onto matched spigot formations of a second end of alongitudinal body (e.g., 12, 112) of a planter and a bottom side whichis provided with a connector 178 (e.g., coupler) for coupling to aliquid outlet line (e.g., a pipe). An example of the end member 172positioned to be coupled to a planter (e.g., 110) is described at leastwith reference to FIG. 23 . The end member 172 includes a channel 174that enables liquid received via the liquid conduit 175 to be providedthrough the connector 178 to the liquid outlet line (not shown), such asliquid collection line 103.

Referring to FIGS. 18A and 18B, examples of a conduit 180 (e.g., a gaschannel) are shown. The conduit 180 includes a channel 182 through whichgas may be provided. As shown, a portion of an outer surface of theconduit 180 includes one or more grooves 185. The grooves 185 may beconfigured to enable the conduit 180 to be coupled (e.g., securelycoupled) to a planter, a plant tower, a coupler, an end cap, etc. Anexample of the conduit 180 being coupled to a planter is described atleast with reference to FIGS. 24 and 25 . The conduit 180 includesoutlets, such as a representative outlet 184, spaced along its length.For example, the outlets 184 may open to an outside of a planter body(e.g., 12, 112) and may be configured to provide gas to adjacent plants,planters, or plant towers. In some implementations, the outlets 184include nozzles.

Referring to FIGS. 19A and 19B, a coupler 190 (e.g., a grommet) forcoupling conduit 180 to a gas supply line is shown. Coupler 190 includesa first end 197 and a second end 198. The first end 197 is configured tobe coupled to the conduit 180 and the second end 198 is configured to becoupled to a gas supply line.

The coupler 190 includes a connector 192 to couple the coupler 190 tothe gas supply line (not shown), such as a plastic tube. As shown,connector 192 includes a tab 193 over which the gas supply line isinserted. The coupler 190 includes a channel 194 that extends throughthe coupler 190 between the first end 197 and the second end 198 suchthat gas provided from the gas supply line may be provided to theconduit 180. As shown, the coupler 190 includes a support structure 196and one or more grooves 195. The support structure 196 is configured toprovide stability and to ensure the conduit 180 maintains its shape asthe conduit 180 is inserted into the coupler 190. The grooves 195 areconfigured to mate with the grooves 185 of the conduit.

Referring to FIGS. 20A-20D, an example of a tray 200 is shown. Forexample, FIG. 20A shows a perspective view of the tray 200, FIG. 20Bshows a first side view of the tray 200, FIG. 20C shows a second sideview of the tray 200, and FIG. 20D shows a rear view of the tray 200.

Tray 200 may be configured to be used as a seedling tray, a plantingtray, a seeding clip, or a combination thereof. Tray 200 is shaped anddimensioned to fit into a mouth of a plant holder (e.g., 16, 18, 116,118). The tray 200 includes one or more rims 210 that are configured tobe coupled with an edge of the mouth of the plant holder. The tray 200has a planar bottom 206 and includes one or more drainage slits 208. Thedrainage slits 208 are configured to permit liquid drainage withoutflushing seedlings from the tray 200. As shown, tray 200 also includesdrainage holes 209. It is noted, that as a plant grows while supportedby/within tray 200, roots of the plant may extend through the drainageslits 208, the drainage holes 209, or both.

Tray 200 also includes a slot 204. The slot 204 may be configured toengage a stem or stalk of a plant. For example, the slot 204 may engagea stem to secure a position of a plant.

Referring to FIG. 21 , an example of planters being coupled together isshown. A spigot formation 122 of a first planter may be inserted into asocket formation 120 of a second planter to form a single, combinedplanter.

Referring to FIG. 22 , an example of the end member 152 being coupled toa planter is shown. The spigot formation 153 of the end member 152 maybe inserted into the socket formation 120 of a planter.

Referring to FIG. 23 , an example of the end member 172 being coupled toa planter is shown. The spigot formation 122 of the planter may beinserted into the socket formation 176 of the end member 172.

Referring to FIG. 24 , an example of trays (e.g., the tray 200) beinginserted into a planter (e.g., 10, 50, 110) is shown. For example afirst tray 200 is configured to be inserted into the plant holder 116and a second tray 200 is configured to be inserted into the plant holder118.

Referring to FIGS. 25A and 25B, examples of coupling of the conduit 180to the channel 124 of a plant tower is shown. For example, FIG. 25Ashows the conduit 180 being coupled to the channel 124 and FIG. 25Bshows the coupler 190 configured to be coupled to the conduit 180.

A planter 250 (e.g., a plant tower) include the channel 124. The planter250 may include or correspond to the plant tower 50. In someimplementations, the planter 250 may be incorporated into a greenhouse,such as the greenhouse 100 of FIG. 11 . The planter 250 includes thechannel 124 that longitudinally extends along a body of the planter. Theconduit 180 has a first end 252 and a second end 254. The conduitincludes outlets 184 positioned between the first end 252 and the secondend 254. The conduit 180 is inserted into the channel 124. In is notedthat the first end 252 of the conduit 180 is inserted into the gasconduit 158 of the end member 152. The second end 254 of the conduit 180is inserted into the first end 197 of the coupler 190. In someimplementations, an adhesive may be used to couple one or morecomponents together. For example, the first end 252 of the conduit 180may be coupled to the gas conduit 158 of the end member 152 to ensure aleak free connection.

Referring to FIGS. 26A, 26B, 27A, 27B, 28A, and 28B, an example of aplanter 310 is shown. For example, FIGS. 26A and 26B illustrateperspective views of planter 310, FIGS. 27A and 27B illustrate twohalves of the planter 310 of FIGS. 26A and 26B, FIG. 28A shows a sideview of a portion of planter 310 of FIG. 26A, and FIG. 28B shows anexploded view of a portion of the side view of FIG. 28A. Planter 310 mayinclude or correspond to a planter, a planter assembly, or a plantertower. For example, planter 310 may include or correspond to planter 10,planter assembly 50 (e.g., planter tower 50.1-50.10), planter 110,and/or planter 250 (e.g., a plant tower). To illustrate, planter 310 mayincorporate one or more features as described with reference to planter10, planter assembly 50, planter 110, and/or planter 250.

Planter 310 has a longitudinal body 312. The planter 310 includes afirst end 331 and a second end 332 that is opposite the first end 331.As an illustrative, non-limiting example, the longitudinal body 312 mayinclude multiple portions (e.g., two halves) 312.1 and 312.2 that areconfigured to be coupled together. Views of a first portion 312.1 (e.g.,a first half) are shown with reference to FIGS. 27A, 28A, and 28B. Aviews of a second portion 312.2 (e.g., a second half) is shown withreference to FIG. 27B.

The longitudinal body 312 defines two longitudinally extending liquidchannels 314.1 and 314.2. For example, a first liquid channel 314.1extends between the first end 331 and the second end 332 and a secondliquid channel 314.2 extends between the first end 331 and the secondend 332. The first fluid channel 314.1 and second fluid channel 314.2may corresponds to and/or define fluid paths 315.1, 315.2, respectively,between the first end 331 and the second end 332. The first liquidchannel 314.1 is distinct from the second liquid channel 314.2. Toillustrate, the longitudinal body 312 may include a single longitudinalconduit which is internally divided (by a divider 313) into the at leasttwo longitudinally extending liquid channels 314.1 and 314.2.

The planter 310 includes at least two plant holders, such asrepresentative plant holders 316, 318 defined on the outer circumferenceof the longitudinal body. The plant holders 316, 318 may include orcorrespond to the plant holders 16, 18, 116, 118. The at least two plantholders 316, 318 are alternatively spaced on opposed sides of thelongitudinal body. The at least two plant holders 316, 318 have holdermouths which may be in the form of applanated cylindrical ellipses or inanother form. Each of the two plant holders 316, 318 has correspondingopenings 316.1, 318.1 defining liquid inlets to the plant holder andcorresponding openings 316.2, 318.2 defining liquid outlets from theplant holders. To further illustrate, each plant holder 316, 318 has acorresponding inlet opening 316.1, 318.1 and a corresponding outletopening 316.2, 318.2, respectively, which forms part of itscorresponding liquid channel 314.2 and 314.1. As can be seen, the inletopenings 316.1, 318.1 are located above the outlet openings 316.2, 318.2to permit liquid to flow into the plant holders 316, 318 through theinlet openings 316.1, 318.1 and from the plant holder through the outletopening 316.2, 318.2. In some implementations, an inlet opening (e.g.,316.1, 318.1) may include or correspond to a ridge 335. For example,ridge 335 may extend (e.g., protrude) from a surface 337 of divider 313.Ridge 335 may include or correspond to ridge 117. Liquid may travelwithin a liquid channel (e.g., 314.1, 314.2) along a surface 338 and/orthe surface 337. As the liquid travels downward, liquid that travelsalong the surface 337 toward the ridge 335 encounters ridge 335 and iscaused to splash and/or flow over ridge 335, such that the liquidcascades or otherwise flows into a next downstream plant holder andimprove a wetting coverage of a plant or seed(s) in the next downstreamplant holder. In some implementations, ridge 335 operates to reduce orslow a flow of the liquid through the liquid channel (e.g., 314.1,316.1) and thereby reduce damage that could be caused by fast movingliquid to downstream plants. In some implementations, ridge 335 extendsacross an entire width of the inlet opening (e.g., 316.1, 318.1). Inother implementation, ridge 335 only extends across a portion of thewidth of the inlet opening (e.g., 316.1, 318.1), such as shown in atleast FIGS. 1A. and 1B.

Longitudinal body 312 may also include one or more overflow channels 333(e.g., bypass channels). The overflow channel 333 may include orcorrespond to the overflow channel 119. The overflow channel 333 may beconfigured to bypass a portion of a corresponding liquid channel 314. Anoverflow channel may have an overflow inlet 333.1 positioned in a plantholder 316, 318, such as near a rim or mouth of the plant holder 316,318. In other implementations, the overflow inlet may be offset from therim or mouth of the plant holder 316, 318, such that the overflow inletis closer to a middle of the plant holder 316, 318 or is positionedbetween a middle of the plant holder 316, 318 and a rim of the plantholder 316, 318. The overflow channel 333 may have an overflow outlet333.2 that is open to a corresponding liquid channel.

As shown (e.g., identified) in at least FIG. 26B, planter 310 includes afirst plant holder, a second plant holder, a third plant holder, afourth plant holder, a fifth plant holder, and a sixth plant holder. Itis noted that the opening (e.g., the liquid outlet) of the sixth plantholder may include or correspond to an opening associated with thesecond end 332.

The longitudinal body 312 has connecting formations 320, 322 in the formof socket and spigot formations at the ends of the longitudinal body312. The connecting formations may include or correspond to theconnecting formations 20, 22, 120, 122 described above. The connectingformations 320, 322 are shaped and dimensioned to fit into respectivespigot and socket formations of corresponding planters and/orcorresponding end members. For example, the operative lower end of thelongitudinal body 312 of the planter 310 has a spigot formation 322, forfitting into a socket formation 320 on an operative upper end of alongitudinal body 312 of another planter installed below the formerplanter.

The planter 310 further includes mounting ports 324 along thelongitudinal body 312. As shown, planter 310 includes six mounting portson the same side (e.g., a single side) of the planter. In otherimplementations, planter 310 may have more than or fewer than sixmounting ports. Additionally, or alternatively planter 310 may havemounting ports on more than one side of the planter 310. To illustrate,planter 310 may have mounting ports 324 as shown on a first side and mayinclude additional mounting ports on a second side of the planter thatis opposite the first side. In some implementations, a first set ofmounting ports may be aligned vertically. To illustrate, a first set ofmounting ports that are aligned vertically include mounting ports of thefirst plant holder, the third plant holder, and the fifth plant holder.A second set of mounting ports that are aligned vertically includemounting ports of the second plant holder, the fourth plant holder, andthe sixth plant holder. Each of the mounting ports 324 is configured toreceive and support a mounting bracket. An example of a mounting bracketis described with reference to at least FIG. 33 .

Mounting brackets may be coupled to the mounting ports 324 to enable oneor more gas channels (e.g., gas conduits) to be mounted to planter 310.Each of the one or more gas channels may have gas outlets spaced alongits length. The gas outlets, such as nozzles) may open to the outside ofthe planter body. In some implementations, mounting brackets may bepositioned in the mounting ports 324 to support a single gas channel.For example, mounting brackets coupled to the first and second set ofmounting ports may be aligned to support a single gas channel (e.g., asingle gas conduit). In other implementations, mounting brackets coupledto the first set of mounting ports may be aligned to support a first gaschannel and mounting brackets coupled to the second mounting ports maybe aligned to support a second gas channel. In implementations includingmultiple gas channels, the first gas channel may include outletsdirected toward the first, third, and fifth plant holders, and thesecond gas channel may include outlets directed toward the second,fourth, and sixth plant holders. Additionally, or alternatively, the gaschannel(s) may be directed toward plant holders of an neighboringplanter assembly.

Planter 310 has an external attachment formation 328 proximate the plantholder mouth for attaching plant supports. One example of such a plantsupport is the plant trellis 30, shown in FIG. 9 , which has acorresponding attachment formation 32, which can fit into the attachmentformation 328, spigot and socket fashion. The creeper trellis 30 isarranged to support a creeper plant (not shown), planted in the plantholder when it grows from the plant holder mouth 316, 318.

The planter 310 also has external attachment formations in the form ofapertures 334, for holding wire, line or cables that can provideadditional structural strength to the planter 310 (or an assembly ofmultiple planters 310) or to provide a structure onto which creepers cangrow.

A mouth of a plant holder (e.g., 316, 318) may be configured to receiveand/or support a planting inserts, such as a seedling tray, a plantingtray, a seeding clip, or other insert. The planting inserts may beselected based on its suitability for a specific plant. Illustrative,non-limiting examples of planting inserts for use with planter 310include the seedling tray 60, the planting tray 70, the seeding clip 80,or a tray 200 of FIGS. 20A-20D. Additional inserts are described furtherherein with reference to FIGS. 31A, 31B, 32, and 34A-34G.

In a particular implementation, a planter 310 includes a longitudinalbody 312 defining at least two longitudinally extending liquid channels314.1, 314.2. The planter 310 also includes at least two plant holders(e.g., 316, 318) defined in the body 312. The plant holders (e.g., 316,318) are spaced on the outer circumference of the longitudinal body 312.Each one of the at least two plant holders (e.g., 316, 318) is in fluidflow communication with one of the at least two longitudinally extendingliquid channels 314.1, 314.2. In some implementations, the longitudinalbody 312 may include a single longitudinal conduit which is internallydivided (e.g., by at least the divider 313) to define the at least twolongitudinally extending liquid channels 314.1, 314.2.

Referring to FIGS. 29A and 29B, an example of an end member 352 (e.g., atop end member) is shown. FIG. 29A includes a top perspective view ofthe end member 352, and FIG. 29B includes a bottom perspective view ofthe end member 352. The end member 352 may be referred to as a canopy ofa planter (e.g., 10, 110, 310) or a planter assembly (e.g., 50). The endmember 352 is configured to fit socket and spigot fashion onto a top ofa longitudinal body (e.g., 12, 112, 312) of a planter.

The end member 352 has dual liquid conduits 354, 356 indexed to matchlongitudinally extending liquid channels, such as liquid channels 14.1,14.2, liquid channels 114.1, 114.2, or liquid channels 314.1, 314.2.Liquid conduits 354, 356 may be separated by divider 360. The end member352 includes connector apertures 359 through which a connector, such asa tie, may be inserted. An example of a connector is described at leastwith reference to FIG. 16D which may be coupled to the end member 352 ina similar manner as described with reference to the end member 152(e.g., see FIG. 16E). The end member 352 may also include apertures 358.Aperture 358 may be configured as a breather hole and/or an inlet.

The end member 352 has a body with two sides, an upper side which isprovided with a recessed cradle formation 257 for receiving a liquidsupply line (e.g., 102, 170), such as a pipe, and a bottom side which isprovided with a spigot formation 353 for fitting onto matched socketformations of a first end of a longitudinal body (e.g., 12, 112, 312) ofa planter. An example of the end member 352 positioned to be coupled toa planter (e.g., 310) is described at least with reference to FIG. 34 .

As shown, spigot formation 353 includes one or more couplers 355, suchas one or more clips. In some implementations, a matching socketformation (e.g., 20, 120, 320) of a planter includes receiving portionsconfigured to engage the one or more couplers 355. Although, spigotformation 353 is shown as having multiple couplers, in otherimplementations, spigot formation may include no couplers.

Referring to FIGS. 30A and 30B, an example of an end member 372 (e.g., abottom end member) is shown. FIG. 30A includes a top perspective view ofthe end member 372 and FIG. 30B includes a bottom perspective view ofthe end member 372. The end member 372 may be referred to as a base of aplanter (e.g., 10, 110, 310) or a planter assembly (e.g., 50). The endmember 372 is configured to fit socket and spigot fashion onto a top ofa longitudinal body (e.g., 12, 112, 312) of a planter.

The end member 372 has liquid conduits 373, 375 configured to receivelongitudinally extending liquid channels, such as liquid channels 14.1,14.2, liquid channels 114.1, 114.2, or liquid channels 314.1, 314.2. Insome implementations, the liquid conduits may be divided by a divider376. The end member 372 has a body with two sides, an upper side whichis provided with a socket formation(s) 377 for fitting onto matchedspigot formations of a second end of a longitudinal body (e.g., 12, 112,312) of a planter and a bottom side which is provided with a recessedcradle formation 379 and a connector 378 (e.g., coupler) for coupling toa liquid outlet line (e.g., a pipe), such as outlet line 103. Forexample, recessed cradle formation 379 may be coupled to an outsidesurface of the liquid outlet line and the connector 378 may fit into anopening of the liquid outlet line. An example of the end member 372positioned to be coupled to a planter (e.g., 310) is described at leastwith reference to FIG. 34 . The end member 372 includes a channel 374that enables liquid received via the liquid conduits 373, 375 to beprovided through the connector 378 to the liquid outlet line (notshown).

In FIGS. 31A and 31B, a planting tray 380 is shown, which is shaped anddimensioned to fit into a mouth of a plant holder (e.g., 16, 18, 116,118, 316, 318). For example, planting tray 380 includes a rim 381configured to rest on an edge of the mouth of the plant holder. Theplanting tray 380 is in the form of a cylindrical body shaped to theshape of the plant holder. In some implementations, the cylindrical bodymay be tapered. The planting tray 380 includes an opening 387 into whichseeds may be placed into the planting tray 380. The planting tray 380includes an inlet cover 382 configured to be indexed with the inletopenings of the plant holder (e.g., 16.1, 18.1, 116.1, 118.1, 316.1,318.1). The inlet cover 382 includes inlet slits 383, an opening 384,and a liquid guide 385. The inlet cover 382 is configured to deflect andslow the flow of liquid into planting tray 380. The planting tray 380has a planar base and sidewalls including drainage slits 386. Theportion of the sidewall is slightly tapered towards the base.

Referring to FIG. 32 , an example of a tray 390 is shown. Tray 390 maybe configured to be used as a seedling tray, a planting tray, a seedingclip, or a combination thereof. Tray 390 is shaped and dimensioned tofit into a mouth of a plant holder (e.g., 16, 18, 116, 118, 316, 318).The tray 390 includes one or more rims 392 (e.g., a rim portion) thatare configured to be coupled with an edge of the mouth of the plantholder. The tray 390 includes multiple fins 393 that extend from the rim392 in a downward direction. At least one of the fins is coupled to aplanar bottom 396. The adjacent fins (e.g., 393) are separated by one ormore drainage slits 395. The drainage slits 395 are configured to permitliquid drainage without flushing seedlings from the tray 390. Thedrainage slits 395 open into one or more channel openings 397 positionedbetween the planar bottom 396 the ends of the fins 393. Tray 390 alsoincludes a slot 394. The slot 394 may be configured to engage a stem orstalk of a plant. For example, the slot 394 may engage a stem to securea position of a plant. It is noted, that as a plant grows whilesupported by/within tray 390, roots of the plant may extend through thedrainage slits 208, the channel openings 397, or both. The plant may beremoved from the tray 390 in a direction away from the slot 394 andtowards the planar bottom 396 such that the roots slide down the slits395 and out the channel openings 397, and damage to the root structureof the plant is limited.

Referring to FIG. 33 , an example of a mounting bracket 400 is shown.The mounting bracket 400 includes a base 402, a mounting coupler 404(e.g., a post), and coupling arms 406. The mounting coupler 404 isconfigured to be coupled to a mounting port, such as mounting port 324of planter 310. The arms 406 define an opening 408 and are configured toreceive and be coupled to a conduit, such as a gas conduit (e.g., apipe). Mounting bracket includes a first side 409 and a second side 410opposite the first side 409. In some implementations, mounting bracket400 may be coupled to a mounting port (e.g., 324) such that the firstside 409 is a top side of the mounting bracket 400. In otherimplementations, mounting bracket 400 may be coupled to a mounting port(e.g., 324) such that the second side 410 is a top side of the mountingbracket 400.

Referring to FIGS. 34A-34G, an example of a tray 430 is shown. Forexample, FIG. 34A shows a perspective view of the tray 430, FIG. 34Bshows a side view of the tray 430, FIG. 34C shows a front view of thetray 430, and FIG. 34D shows a top view of the tray 340. Additionally,FIGS. 34E-34H show tray 430 with a seed holder 490. For example, FIG.34E shows a perspective view of the tray 430 with seed holder 490, FIG.34F shows a side view of the tray 430 with seed holder 490, FIG. 34Gshows a rear view of the tray 430 with seed holder 490, and FIG. 34Hshows a top view of the tray 340 with seed holder 490.

Tray 430 may be configured to be used as a seedling tray, a plantingtray, a seeding clip, or a combination thereof. In some implementations,tray 430 is configured to be used with seed holder 490, as describedwith reference to FIGS. 34E-34H. Tray 430 is shaped and dimensioned tofit into a mouth of a plant holder (e.g., 16, 18, 116, 118, 316, 318).The tray 430 includes one or more rims 432 (e.g., a rim portion) thatare configured to be coupled to and/or interface with an edge of themouth of the plant holder. Tray 430 may also include one or more tabs431 (e.g., one or more flanges). For example, tray 430 may include afirst set of tabs at a first position along rim 432 and a second set oftabs at a second position along rim 432. The one or more tabs 431 may beconfigured to enable installation and removal of tray 420 into a mountof a plant holder. For example, the one or more tabs 431 may beconfigured to be coupled to and/or engage a tool, such as a y-fork typetool or a tong. To illustrate, the one or more tabs 431 may enable thetool to be coupled to opposite sides of tray 430 to enable tray 430 tobe securely installed and/or removed from a plan holder mouth. Such atool may have one or more “fingers” that extend outward to enablecoupling and release of tray 430 minimal to no damage of a plantcorresponding to tray 430 and/or to neighboring or nearby plants. It isalso noted that by using a tool for installation and/or removal of tray430, a person does not have to use his or her hands to reach andphysically remove tray 430, which may inadvertently cause damage to aplant (corresponding to tray 430) or to neighboring plants (inneighboring plant holders). Additionally, or alternatively, in someimplementations, the one or more tabs 431 may be configured to providesupport and/or stabilize tray 430 with respect to the mouth of the plantholder and/or with respect to the body of the planter. For example, oneor more tabs 431 adjacent to rim 432 may stabilize tray 430 with respectto the edge of the mouth. Additionally, or alternatively, one or moretabs 431 extending rearward from tray 430 may be configured to bepositioned in openings or indentations of the body of the planter or maybe configured to be positioned on a side of the body—e.g., two tabs 431may be positioned such that when tray 430 is positioned in the mouth,the body is positioned between the two tabs 431.

The tray 430 includes multiple fins 433, one or more supports 434, andone or more bracket 436. Fins 433, and supports 434 may extend from rim432 in a downward direction. The adjacent/neighboring fins (e.g., 393)and supports 434 are separated by one or more drainage slits 438. Thedrainage slits 438 open to an opening 439 (e.g., a gap). For example,drainage slits 438 open to opening 439 (e.g., a gap) when no seed holder490 is positioned in tray 430. The one or more supports 434 may includean extension portion (e.g., 441) that extends downward and is configuredto support and/or stabilize seed holder 490. In some implementations, atleast one of the supports 434 includes a bottom portion (e.g. 435)configured to support seed holder 490 from the bottom of seed holder.Bracket(s) 436 are configured to provide support for seed holder 490, asdescribed with reference to FIGS. 34E-34H. In some implementations, oneor more of fins 433 may instead be supports 434. Alternatively, in otherimplementations, one or more of support 434 may instead be fins 433.Additionally, or alternatively, although tray 430 is shown as having asingle bottom portion 435, in other implementations, tray 430 may haveno bottom portion 435 or multiple bottom portions 435—e.g., multiplebottom portions a particular support and/or multiple supports withbottom portions.

Referring to FIGS. 34E-34H, tray 430 is shown with seed holder 490(e.g., a plug). Seed holder 490 includes a top surface 492, one or moreside surfaces 494, and a bottom surface 498. Additionally, seed holder490 defines a cavity 496, such as a cavity configured to hold one ormore seeds. The one or more side walls 494 are configured to contact oneor more of supports 434. Bottom surface is configured to contact bottomportion 435. Although shown as having an inverted pyramidal shape, seedholder 490 is not to limited to such a shape and may have other shapes,such as a cone.

FIG. 35 shows a planter 340 (e.g., a planter assembly) in accordancewith a further aspect of the disclosure. Planter assembly 500 mayinclude or correspond to a least planter tower 50 or planter 10, 110,250, 310. In this example, the planter tower 420 includes a planter 310configured to have plant holders, such as plant holders 316, 318,extending from the sides of the planter assembly 500. As can be seen inFIG. 34 , the plant holders 316, 318 which are alternatively spaced onopposed sides over the length of the of the planter tower (e.g., 500).

Referring to FIG. 35 , an example of trays (e.g., the tray 200, tray380, tray 390, or tray 430) being inserted into a planter (e.g., 10, 50,110, 310, 420) is shown. For example a first tray 380 is configured tobe inserted into the plant holder 316 and a second tray (e.g., 390 or430) is configured to be inserted into the plant holder 318. Mountingbrackets 400 may be coupled to planter 500 and positioned to bevertically aligned. A conduit (not shown), such as a gas tube, may becoupled to the mounting brackets.

The above specification and examples provide a complete description ofthe structure and use of illustrative embodiments. Although certainembodiments have been described above with a certain degree ofparticularity, or with reference to one or more individual embodiments,those skilled in the art could make numerous alterations to thedisclosed embodiments without departing from the scope of thisdisclosure. As such, the various illustrative embodiments of the methodsand systems are not intended to be limited to the particular formsdisclosed. Rather, they include all modifications and alternativesfalling within the scope of the claims, and embodiments other than theone shown may include some or all of the features of the depictedembodiments. For example, elements may be omitted or combined as aunitary structure, connections may be substituted, or both. Further,where appropriate, aspects of any of the examples described above may becombined with aspects of any of the other examples described to formfurther examples having comparable or different properties and/orfunctions, and addressing the same or different problems. Similarly, itwill be understood that the benefits and advantages described above mayrelate to one embodiment or may relate to several embodiments.Accordingly, no single implementation described herein should beconstrued as limiting and implementations of the disclosure may besuitably combined without departing from the teachings of thedisclosure. The claims are not intended to include, and should not beinterpreted to include, means-plus- or step-plus-function limitations,unless such a limitation is explicitly recited in a given claim usingthe phrase(s) “means for” or “step for,” respectively.

The invention claimed is:
 1. A planter which includes: a longitudinalbody defining at least two longitudinally extending liquid channels, thelongitudinal body including one or more mounting ports configured toreceive a mounting bracket configured to enable a conduit to be coupledto the longitudinal body via the mounting bracket; at least two plantholders defined in the body, the plant holders spaced on the outercircumference of the longitudinal body, each one of the at least twoplant holders in fluid flow communication with one of the at least twolongitudinally extending liquid channels; the mounting bracket coupledto a mounting port of the one or more mounting ports, the mountingbracket including a post configured to engage mounting port of the oneor more mounting ports and a coupling element configured to secure theconduit in a coupled state with the mounting bracket; and the conduit iscoupled to the mounting bracket and includes at least one longitudinallyextending gas channel, the gas channel having gas outlets spaced alongits length, in which the gas outlets in the form of nozzles open to theoutside of the longitudinal body of the planter, and in which the gaschannel is coupled to the one or more mounting ports via the mountingbracket.
 2. The planter as claimed in claim 1, wherein each plant holderdefines a holder mouth into which a plant is receivable.
 3. The planteras claimed in claim 1, in which each plant holder includes an inletopening and an outlet opening, which is in flow communication with itscorresponding liquid channel, and in which the inlet opening is locatedabove the outlet opening to permit gravitational liquid flow into theplant holder through the inlet opening and liquid flow from the plantholder through the outlet opening.
 4. The planter as claimed in claim 2,in which the planter includes an external attachment formationassociated with each plant holder for attaching a plant support, and inwhich the attachment formation is located below the holder mouth.
 5. Theplanter as claimed in claim 1, which includes planting inserts shapedand dimensioned to fit into mouths of the at least two plant holders andin which the planting inserts are selected from any one or more of: aseedling tray, a planting tray and a seeding clip.
 6. The planter asclaimed in claim 5, in which the planting tray is in the form of acylindrical body shaped to the shape of the plant holder and includes aninlet opening indexed with the inlet opening of the plant holder, theplanting tray includes a planar base cut in sections to provide drainageslits to permit liquid drainage without flushing seedlings from theseedling tray.
 7. The planter as claimed in claim 6, in which a portionof a sidewall of the planting tray also includes drainage slits, inwhich a portion of the sidewall is slightly tapered towards the base, orboth.
 8. A planter tower comprising: a plurality of planters as claimedin claim 1, interconnected together to form an elongate upright planterwith plant holders extending from sides of the planter tower.
 9. Theplanter tower as claimed in claim 8, which includes at least one endmember, shaped and dimensioned to connect onto an end of the pluralityof planters connected together, and in which the planter tower includestwo end members, a top end member for connecting to the top end of theplurality of planters and a bottom end member for connecting to thebottom end of the plurality of planters.
 10. The planter tower asclaimed in claim 9, which includes at least one end member, shaped anddimensioned to connect onto an end of the plurality of plantersconnected together, and in which the at least one end member includes acatchment tray, for receiving any overflow liquid.
 11. The planter toweras claimed in claim 8, in which each planter includes a gas channel, thegas channel extends over a length of the interconnected plurality ofplanters.
 12. A hydroponic greenhouse, which includes an array ofplanter towers as claimed in claim 8, the planter towers arranged inparallel spaced rows, the rows being provided with a top liquid supplyline, connected via an intake closure to a top of each of the plantertowers, the rows further being provided with a bottom liquid collectionline, connected via an outlet closure to a bottom of each of the plantertowers; and a liquid circulation system, connected to the liquid supplylines and the liquid collection lines.
 13. The hydroponic greenhouse asclaimed in claim 12, wherein the rows being provided with a top gassupply line connected via the intake closure to the top of each of theplanter towers and provided with a bottom gas collection line connectedvia the outlet closure to the bottom of each of the planter towers. 14.The hydroponic greenhouse as claimed in claim 13, further comprising: agas circulation system, connected to the gas supply lines and the gascollection lines.
 15. The planter as claimed in claim 1, in which: aseedling tray is shaped based on the shape of the plant holder andincludes an inlet opening indexed with the inlet opening of the plantholder, the seedling tray includes drainage slits to permit liquiddrainage without flushing seedlings from the seedling tray.
 16. Theplanter as claimed in claim 2, in which: the mounting bracket includes abase, the post extends from a first side of the base in a firstdirection, the coupling element includes one or more coupling arms thatextend from a second side of the base in a second direction that isopposite the first direction, and the one or more coupling arms definean opening configured to receive the conduit.
 17. The planter as claimedin claim 1, in which: the planter includes one or more planting insertsshaped and dimensioned to fit into mouths of the at least two plantholders, the one or more planting inserts are selected from a group ofplanting inserts including: a seedling tray, a planting tray and aseeding clip, and a first planting insert of the one or more plantinginserts includes: multiple fins, a planar bottom coupled to at least onefin, a slit positioned between two fins of the multiple fins, or acombination thereof; or a second planting insert of the one or moreplanting inserts includes: a seed holder positioned in the seedlingtray, and a channel positioned between the planar bottom and an end ofat least one fin.
 18. The planter as claimed in claim 1, in which: theone or more mounting ports include multiple mounting ports on a firstside of the planter, the multiple mounting ports include: a first set ofmounting ports; and a second set of mounting ports; and when themounting port and the conduit are coupled to the longitudinal body viathe one or more mounting ports, the conduit is positioned between thefirst set of mounting ports and the second set of mounting port.
 19. Theplanter as claimed in claim 18, in which: the longitudinal body includesa divider configured to divide at least a portion of a longitudinalconduit of the longitudinal body into the at least two longitudinallyextending liquid channels; wherein: the first set of mounting ports onthe first side of the planter are vertically aligned and positioned on afirst side of the divider, the second set of mounting ports the firstside of the planter are vertically aligned and positioned on a secondside of the divider, a first set of plant holders of the at least twoplant holders are positioned on the first side of the divider, and asecond set of plant holders of the at least two plant holders arepositioned on the second side of the divider.